On May 29, after weeks of speculation, talks of press leaks and insider info, and Internet hype, the Pokemon Company decided to hold a press conference for a special announcement, and Pokemon fans collectively lost their minds. Pokemon revealed its newest, and also first, title for the Nintendo Switch. Although leaks beforehand had all but confirmed the existence of the two Let’s Go games, seeing them in action was a sigh of relief for everyone involved.
In hopes of maintaining the high level of anticipation observed with every entry in the franchise, the Pokemon Company has been giving out more info in the span of the last two months. A new trailer dropped today, showcasing the beautifully reimagined world of Kanto as well as more details regarding specific mechanics of the game. Returning characters from the old games are shown off in their entire 3D splendor, from Professor Oak and a new Rival, to fan-favorite gym leaders Brock and Misty. We also got a closer look at Pokemon that players can ride in the game, such as Onyx and Arcanine.
To capitalize on the social aspect, the trailer outlined various co-op options such as battling together and trading. Friends can traverse the region together and battle each other as well. Not to mention, special interactions with the eponymous companions are also shown, as players can groom and dress their Pikachu or Eevee however they like.
Nintendo confirmed that this was more of a spinoff than a core entry in their RPG line, and that another game intended for hardcore players will come out next year. Unsurprisingly, this detracted from the fervor many had towards the title when it was first announced. Though, perhaps as the game’s release date draws closer and more of the enchanting, polished Kanto is revealed, nostalgia for the simple Pokemon Yellow days of old combined with the promising future of truly high-definition Pokemon titles will give the Let’s Go series the recognition it deserves.
Pokemon Let’s Go, Pikachu and Let’s Go: Eevee will release November 16, 2018 worldwide on the Nintendo Switch.